New approach to the origin of lognormal size distributions of nanoparticles

A new model for particle growth can predict the well known lognormal partic le size distribution from first principles in a physically realistic way. T he model is completely different from the usually applied coagulation model s; it is based on a residence time approach, where the time available for t he particles to grow determines the size distribution. The model is general ly relevant in fields such as nanoparticle physics, aerosol science or envi ronmental science, whenever particle growth occurs during transport through a growth zone due to diffusion and drift. Model predictions show excellent agreement with published experimental data obtained with the inert-gas eva poration technique.